NMFTA Implements NMFC Changes – What Drivers Really Need to Know

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

Introduction

If your eyes glaze over every time someone says “freight classification,” you’re not alone. But don’t zone out just yet—because the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) just rolled out new changes to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, and this stuff can impact your paycheck if you're dealing with LTL freight.

The changes went into effect this week, and while the folks in suits say it’s about “efficiency” and “clarity,” drivers and small carriers are asking: Is this another paperwork headache... or a wallet drainer?

Let’s break it down Diesel-style—real, clear, and no fluff.

What the Heck is NMFC Anyway?

Let’s hit the brakes for a second.

The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is basically a huge playbook that decides how every single item being shipped via Less-than-Truckload (LTL) freight is categorized. It affects:

Shipping rates – Based on weight, density, stowability, handling, and liability.

Billing disputes – Misclassified freight can cost shippers and carriers big money.

Tariffs and contracts – They’re all based on NMFC codes.

Think of it like the pricing chart at a truck wash. Depending on the truck’s condition and size, you get charged different rates. Same thing with freight.

What Changed This Week?

According to NMFTA, several classifications were adjusted, and new items were added or redefined. Here's a simple breakdown:

New NMFC codes for hybrid products – Think mixed-material items like metal/plastic shelving units.

Density guidelines updated – Which affects how certain goods are rated, especially if they’re lightweight but bulky.

Redefined “machine parts” and “kits” – This affects how these are classified depending on packaging and parts included.

Removal of outdated codes – Some older freight categories were sunsetted.

While they say it improves “classification accuracy,” you better believe it could lead to higher shipping charges if shippers or brokers don’t adjust properly.

Why It Matters to Drivers (Especially LTL and Owner-Ops)

This ain’t just for dispatchers or office staff. It hits YOU in a few ways:

Incorrect freight class = chargebacks – If the freight is reclassified during inspection, someone eats the cost. Sometimes it’s the carrier. Sometimes it's you.

More back-and-forth with shippers – Expect confusion for the next few weeks. "Why is this class 125 now when it was 85 before?" Yeah, that convo.

Potential pay impact – If your rate is tied to weight or class, changes could mess with your numbers.

Longer dock time – Until things settle, terminals may take longer due to corrections and re-billing.

And let’s be real: most drivers didn’t sign up to become freight class experts.

How the Industry Is Reacting

Big LTL carriers are updating systems – FedEx Freight, Old Dominion, and others are updating their tech and training teams.

Freight brokers? Scrambling – Many didn’t get ahead of the curve, so expect re-rating chaos.

Shippers are frustrated – The ones who ship similar stuff weekly are already dealing with billing disputes.

Small carriers and O/Os are wary – The extra admin and surprise reclasses could mean lower margins.

What You Should Do Right Now

Don’t get caught off guard. Here's how to protect your time and your wallet:

Double check BOLs – Look at the class listed. If it feels off, ask questions before signing.

Keep your bills clean – Take photos, get weights, measure freight. Documentation matters now more than ever.

Talk to dispatch or broker – If you’re on percentage pay, these changes could swing your income.

Use apps like MyCarrier or FreightSnap – They help verify weight/class if you’re moving oddball loads.

Bottom Line – Learn the Game or Pay the Price

These NMFC updates might seem like inside baseball stuff—but if you’re in LTL, they hit your bottom line.

And if you’re driving for someone else? Trust me, the boss already knows about these changes and is adjusting rates. The question is: are you adjusting how you protect YOUR money?

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